Andy Reid Returns and Other Quick Thoughts From Training Camp

In a move that many expected, Andy Reid has returned to training camp just one day after the funeral of his recently deceased son, Garrett Reid. During interviews with media, Reid was humbled by the outpouring of support from the team, community and fan base. Outside of the incredible amount of dedication and support for Reid, the Eagles have announced that the team will be wearing ‘GR’ stickers on the back of helmets in honor of Garrett.

Despite this tremendous loss, Reid does seem focused and composed. I have more faith in his coaching ability now than ever before. That being said, here are a few takeaways from Philadelphia’s 2012 training camp:

Jeremy Maclin Looks Ready as Ever..

DeSean Jackson impressed this training camp, but I think Jeremy Maclin did even more so. The Eagles’ second target has exploded onto the NFL scene and is now being considered one of the best young receivers in the entire league. Not only did Maclin develop by leaps and bounds last season, but judging by early eyeball tests, he looks even better this time around. I expect big things from J-Mac, and I’d go as far as to guess he may have a better statistical season than Jackson.

Head’s up — Maclin is playing for an extension this season.

Will the Eagles Keep a Fullback?

It’s the magic question. Philadelphia has rolled with both Leonard Weaver and Owen Schmitt the past few seasons at fullback, but now that those two are out of the equation, no one is quite sure what the Eagles are going to do. As of this moment, the team has last year’s seventh-round pick Stanley Havili (who I absolutely love), and two other undrafted rookies that are going to end up being cut. However, the kicker is that Philadelphia is leaning towards the idea of instead having more tight ends, especially ones that can block, and eliminating needing a fullback altogether. At this point, it’s anyone’s guess.

Philly is a No-Fly Zone

Hooray! It appears that the Nnamdi Asomugha signing and the Dominque Rogers-Cromartie trade is finally going to pay off! These two, in training camp, have looked excellent. DRC is finally back in his more comfortable spot on the outside and Asomugha is getting in his comfort zone and looking sharp. Behind those two, who could arguably be the best corner tandem in the NFL, new draftee Brandon Boykin is making huge waves and should make a push for the slot position. Don’t be fooled by last season — this secondary is nasty.

The Team Just Looks.. Better

Last season was wild. Everything from the lock-out to the Eagles’ free agency spending spree. With high hopes and the expectations of an entire city, the team flopped. However, this season feels and seems different than last. It’s something in the players, and it’s changed the entire overall atmosphere of camp. These guys want to improve, and the 8-8 record from last season was nothing more than a mistake. The Eagles know how good they can be, it’s just a matter of executing it.